Spring is right around the corner and it’s time for a new beginning. Yes, I know fellow Ontarions, Nature dumped on us this weekend (30 cm or 1 foot of snow here in Toronto). But really, I promise Spring is coming. And it’s the perfect time to clean out your closets AND your body with some detoxing and cleansing.
If you’re experiencing signs of toxicity and want to start feeling better now, as well as ensure a longer, happier life, then start by helping your body detoxify. You might be surprised to hear that one of the easiest and healthiest ways to do this is simply through food!
Nature has given us plenty of food which helps our detoxification processes (more commonly known as super foods with anti-oxidant powers). Just to name a few (source: Life Peak magazine, Vol. 2, Issue 4):
- Lemons
- Prunes
- Leafy greens
- Naturally fermented sauerkraut (made with good bacteria, not vinegar pickled)
- Papaya
The following are a few juice recipes that I used to lose 25 lbs in 3 months during a month long cleanse last year. They are to be juiced but a really good juicer costs mucho moula – and unfortunately, my other expenses take priority right now. So instead, I used my trusty blender. However, the consistency is hard to swallow – think really chunky baby food. So if you can afford it, use a juicer:
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Potassium Juice 3 carrots
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Ginger Root Boost 1 inch slice ginger root |
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High Blood Pressure Reducer 2 garlic cloves
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Yummy Green Drink ½ bunch spinach
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Homemade V8 (6 glasses) 6-8 tomatoes
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Cleansing Veggie Broth BOIL: 3 carrots |
I hope you enjoy these green drinks. Now I feel that I should warn you: when you’re detoxing, you’re going to experience an intensity of negative symptoms, i.e. headaches, moodiness, general aches and pains, etc. This just means that it’s working!
If you plan for it, though, you can ride out this detox storm so you can bask in the calm of the aftermath. Expect to feel uncomfortable as your body releases toxins and take it easy. For instance, don’t schedule to move on your detox or plan a bunch of social engagements.
Instead, focus on the detox. Plan your meals for the week, what you’ll do when you’re not eating (like cleaning and organizing those closets) and other means of helping your body detox (like physical activity, saunas or hot baths, etc.). I guarantee, it’s worth the effort to be healthy.
Stay tuned for the next post inspired by a Live Lighter reader, “An Easy and Gentle Cleanse for a First-Timer.”
March 11th, 2008 at 6:39 am
These sound tasty. And the names of the drinks are great, straight and to the point.
March 12th, 2008 at 6:04 am
[…] you it needs assistance in detoxifying. You’ve tried a few detox tricks, including a couple super detox drinks, but it’s Spring (or Fall) and you’re in the mood for a deeper internal […]
March 16th, 2008 at 11:39 am
They’re not too bad, Emmanuel. Let me know what you think of them as you try them.
I must admit, though, I favour my smoothies. Maybe because it’s because I’m a fruity kind of gal.
April 2nd, 2008 at 10:58 am
[…] full-out body cleansing , I highly suggest simply replacing a few meals during the week with green detox juice recipes […]
April 6th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
[…] like those from Vega and Living Harvest. Use flavoured in your morning smoothies and plain in your green juices. I’ve also heard dulse is a good source of protein but I haven’t tried this yet. Anyone got any […]
April 10th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
has anyone really lost wieght fast from juice fasting?
April 11th, 2008 at 12:18 am
sorry, i mean does anybody know if the majority of the people who have done juice fasting lost 30-40 lbs in 30 days?
April 11th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Hi Frank. Thanks for your question.
I personally haven’t come across someone who’s lost 30-40 lbs in 30 days. But it might be possible.
Is it healthy, though? I don’t think so. Most health professionals agree that healthy weight loss happens at 1-2 pounds (or about 0.5 - 1 kilo) per week.
I really believe health should be the ultimate goal of any weight loss program. Most people who follow diets gain the weight right back. Why? Because they only changed their lifestyle for awhile.
From my research and personal experience, it is ONLY through a healthy lifestyle that a healthy weight can be maintained.
April 17th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
[…] feeling quite like yourself lately. I’ve found replacing meals every now and again with a green detox juice drink helps me get back on […]